On Thursday, the 11th Virovitica–Gradina Memorial Race was held in Virovitica. The event is part of the commemorations for Gradina Municipality Day and serves as a remembrance for Croatian defenders from the area of the municipality who fell in action, as well as staff of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Virovitica-Podravina County.
The event was organised by the Virovitica-Podravina Police Administration together with the Virovitica-Podravina County Marathon Runners Association, "Glasnici istine" (Messengers of Truth). The aim of the race was to pay tribute to those who suffered during the Homeland War and to those who gave their lives in the service of protecting citizens.
This traditional sporting event brings together runners who compete on a route connecting Virovitica with Gradina. Over the years, the race has become an important part of the region's cultural and historical memory, linking the sporting spirit with the duty to remember the victims of war.
Participants had the opportunity to run through landscapes that evoke historical events, with the finish dedicated to a minute of silence and the lighting of candles for all those who fell. Organisers emphasised the importance of preserving the memory of defenders and police officers who contributed to the defence of the homeland through their actions.
The event brought together numerous athletics enthusiasts, as well as members of associations stemming from the Homeland War. Representatives of the organisers addressed the attendees, highlighting how sport can be a means of promoting the values of peace and solidarity. The race concluded with the presentation of awards to the best participants, accompanied by a collective remembrance of all those who did not live to see peaceful times.
